Beat the heat with these five family activities in the Forest of Dean this summer

Across the country, everyone lives within an hour’s drive of one of the nation’s 1,500 forests, making them an easy escape when temperatures rise.

While beaches and beauty spots can become crowded in the sun, Forestry England is encouraging people to escape both the heat and the crowds in the calming shade of the Forest of Dean.

With warmer conditions becoming a regular feature of British summers, forests and woodlands offer a naturally cooler alternative, where dense tree canopies help keep temperatures down and provide welcome shade for both people and wildlife.

Come and cool down in the soothing woodland cover of the Forest of Dean with Forestry England’s top five family activities.

Room on the Broom comes to life at Beechenhurst

This summer, Forestry England is celebrating 25 years of Room on the Broom with a special live appearance from Witch at Beechenhurst.

Families can enjoy enchanting meet-and-greet sessions alongside themed activities inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved story. No booking is required, but visitors are encouraged to arrive early as sessions are first come, first served.

This event complements the much-loved Room on the Broom trail, where children can help Witch find her lost items and complete magical challenges along the way.

Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal under the trees

A picnic is one of the simplest ways to spend time together outdoors, and the Forest of Dean offers some incredible places to relax, explore and connect with nature.

Beechenhurst is a great place for the family to picnic, with a large play area and welcoming cafe, but did you know that there’s a picnic paradise only a short drive up the road?

Wenchford is a hidden gem in the Forest of Dean. Blackpool Brook trickles through the site under the dappled shade of large oak trees, and the paddling area is the perfect place to cool down in the hot summer months. With plenty of grassy areas and picnic tables, Wenchford is a great place to relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.

Remember that during periods of hot, dry weather the risk of wildfires is high, and disposable or portable BBQs are not permitted in the Forest of Dean. Help reduce wildfire risk by bringing a picnic of chilled food, plenty of water, and sun protection. If you'd like to enjoy a BBQ with friends and family in the woods, you can book the covered gas BBQ in the Glade at Beechenhurst.

Get on your bikes and ride

With hundreds of kilometres of cycling trails and family-friendly off-road routes, the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre is the perfect destination for a family cycle this summer.

The Colliers Trail is the ultimate leisurely ride for families and beginners. A fully waymarked, circular route, with connecting routes to villages and picnic sites, this route is suitable for all ages and abilities. The trail follows the route of the old railway which served the many coal mines (collieries) around the Forest of Dean. The remnants of many of these former mines are still visible today, along with the station names.

Families looking for something a bit more thrilling should try the green-graded Old Bob’s Trail. This is perfect for families and first-timers, with a gentle route to enjoy at your own pace through shady woodland. What’s more, the trail is suitable for a wide range of cycles with 2, 3 or 4 wheels, adaptive cycles and tag-a-longs.

To make things easier, you can hire bikes at the Cycle Centre that are specially designed for younger riders to build off-road cycling skills.

Challenge your family on a simple Gruffalo orienteering adventure

Get the kids interested in map reading and navigating the forest to find hidden Gruffalo markers using a simple map.

This fun navigation activity builds confidence and teamwork while exploring the forest. Answer questions along the way and gain valuable skills in decision making and map reading.

There are two courses in the Forest of Dean: one at Symonds Yat Rock and another at Mallards Pike. Before you begin the trail, pick up a Gruffalo orienteering leaflet with a certificate and map for just £1.50.

Stay a little longer with a forest escape

With the long summer nights, it’s time to gather your family, snuggle up in your sleeping bag, and enjoy the night sky at Bracelands Campsite.

Forestry England campsites provide the perfect location for an immersive holiday. Surrounded by the forest, you will have direct access to miles of paths, unique experiences and an endless adventure.

With stunning views of the Forest of Dean, Bracelands offers caravan pitches, glamping and camping pitches.

By staying at Bracelands, you can enjoy a true nature-fix in one of England's most beloved forests.